16K fined for failing to wear a mask in public as police continue observing measures combating Covid-19

CAIRO – 19 January 2021: A total of 16,512 people have been apprehended for failing to wear a mask, only 205 of whom did not pay the fine of L.E. 50 and will be referred to the prosecution.

A total of 649 shops will also pay fines for not closing down by 10 p.m., and 202 others for serving shisha despite the ban.

The restrictions were applied on Jan. 3 as means to combat the coronavirus. Egyptians must wear a mask while riding public transportation or in public closed spaces.

The police as well as those who have citizen’s arrest powers, mainly at government institutions, can apply the fine, even if a person has a mask on him but does not wear it.

Pedestrians and those in private vehicles are exempt from the fine.